Special Education Teacher

Job Summary: The High School Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities in a high school setting. This role involves developing, implementing, and monitoring Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborating with general education teachers, parents, and support staff, and fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that enables students to achieve their full potential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Instruction and Curriculum:

  • Develop and deliver research-based specialized instruction tailored to meet the unique learning needs of students with diverse disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavioral disabilities, intellectual disabilities, physical impairments).
  • Adapt and modify general education curriculum, instructional materials, and assessments to ensure accessibility and appropriate challenge for students with IEPs.
  • Utilize a variety of teaching techniques, instructional strategies, and assistive technologies (including educational software and devices) to engage students and facilitate learning in individual, small group, and inclusive classroom settings.
  • Teach basic skills, life skills, and functional academics as appropriate for individual student needs.
  • Prepare students for transitions between grades and from high school to post-secondary education, vocational training, or independent living.

• IEP Development and Implementation:

  • Lead the development, review, and revision of comprehensive Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for assigned students, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Collaborate with students, parents/guardians, general education teachers, related service providers (e.g., speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, school psychologists, counselors), and administrators to establish present levels of performance, develop measurable annual goals, and determine appropriate services and accommodations.
  • Monitor student progress rigorously against IEP goals and objectives, maintaining accurate and confidential student records.
  • Conduct formal and informal assessments, evaluations, and reevaluations to determine student strengths, needs, and progress.

• Collaboration and Communication:

  • Serve as the primary contact for parents/guardians regarding their child's special education services and progress.
  • Communicate effectively and regularly with general education teachers regarding student needs, accommodations, modifications, and strategies for inclusive practices.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to create a cohesive and supportive educational experience for all students.
  • Participate in team meetings, professional development, and school-wide initiatives.
  • Provide guidance and oversight to paraprofessionals/educational assistants working with students with disabilities.

• Classroom Management and Environment:

  • Establish and maintain a positive, structured, and consistent classroom environment that encourages student responsibility, cooperation, and mutual respect.
  • Implement effective behavior management plans and strategies, including positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques, to promote a safe and productive learning atmosphere.
  • Organize and maintain a well-prepared and accessible learning space.

• Professionalism and Compliance:

  • Maintain thorough and accurate student records, progress reports, and all required documentation in accordance with district policies and state/federal regulations (IDEA).
  • Adhere to all due process timelines and procedural requirements.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices, research-based interventions, and changes in special education law.
  • Maintain confidentiality of student information at all times.

Qualifications:

• • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Special Education or a related field from an accredited institution.

• Valid South Carolina Special Education teaching certification for High School (Grades 9-12).
• Demonstrated experience working with high school-aged students with a range of disabilities.
• Thorough knowledge of IEP development, implementation, and monitoring processes.
• Strong understanding of federal and state special education laws and regulations (e.g., IDEA, ADA, Section 504).
• Excellent written and oral communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to differentiate instruction, adapt curriculum, and utilize various teaching strategies effectively.
• Patience, empathy, flexibility, and a genuine passion for working with students with disabilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in educational technology and relevant software.

Oceanside Collegiate Academy

Mount Pleasant, SC

https://oceansidecollegiate.academy/sports/2023/12/5/careers.aspx